Preparing the Soil
The majority of garden soils will need to be improved before vegetable seeds can be planted to provide the optimum conditions for germination and subsequent growth. Very light, sandy soils tend to dry out quickly, whilst few seeds will perform well if the soil is heavy and wet or compacted.
For the best soil conditions, dig well in advance, incorporating generous amounts of compost or other well-rotted organic matter. This will improve the water-holding ability of light soils and the structure of heavier ones, and in both cases will enable them to hold more plant foods. Heavy soils should be dug over in the autumn prior to spring sowing so that the action of frost over the winter can help to break them down. They may also be improved by adding sharp sand or grit at this time.
Most seeds germinate best in soil that is slightly acidic (pH 6-6.5); however if your soil is very acid, apply lime to bring its pH closer to neutral.
Avoid planting in cold soil - the majority of vegetable seeds germinate at temperatures over 6°C. Some, such as marrows, need even higher temperatures (15°C), so always check the minimum requirements before sowing.
Before sowing, dig the soil over lightly, removing any weeds, stones and large unbroken clods of soil. Rake the area level until it has a fine crumbly consistency or 'tilth'. This final stage should be carried out when the soil is neither too wet - it should not stick to your shoes - nor too dusty and dry.
